My five-year-old Toyota Camry has been behaving strangely lately. Every time I accelerate, the car tends to veer left.
More seriously, when I am in the middle of a curve and I ease off the accelerator pedal midway, the car feels as if it wants to steer right. It is very unnerving.
I have not done any repairs to the suspension. One workshop suggested that I replace the suspension. I do not know what that means or whether it will solve my instability issues. Is it a problem with the steering?
The problem you have is not really a serious one, but like any that concerns dynamic stability, you should have it rectified.
A wayward behaviour when you accelerate or decelerate is caused by an uneven distribution of torque to the front wheels in any front-wheel-drive car. This is usually linked to improper wheel alignment.
But before you send the car for a re-alignment, make sure the tyres are in good condition and pressures are correct. Uneven pressures in the front tyres can also cause what you are experiencing.
If the symptom persists, then a professional wheel alignment service is necessary.
A diligent workshop may discover a worn-out front suspension linkage, dampers or even defective tyres that are contributing to the problem. If that is so, replacing suspension components may be necessary.
Related story: Are puncture repair kits instead of spare tyres normal these days?
Related story: Why does my Civic’s suspension make a growling noise?
